Chicken Parm

A Classic Italian Comfort Dish

Introduction

Chicken Parmesan, or “Chicken Parm,” is one of the most beloved Italian-American dishes, featuring crispy breaded chicken topped with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. With a perfect balance of textures and flavors, this dish is a go-to for cozy dinners and family gatherings. Best of all, it comes together in just 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
  • 2 large chicken breasts (~1 ½ lbs)
  • Kosher salt & black pepper
  • ¼ cup flour
  • 1 large egg, beaten
  • ¼ cup panko breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Avocado or olive oil spray
• For the Topping:
  • 24 oz jar marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Freshly grated Parmesan for serving

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat to 425°F convection (or 450°F regular bake).
   • Line a baking sheet with a wire rack and spray it with oil. If you don’t have a wire rack, lightly oil the baking sheet.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
   • Place each chicken breast between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to ¼-inch thickness with a meat mallet.
   • Season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Dredge the Chicken:
   • Set up a dredging station:
     • Bowl 1: Flour
     • Bowl 2: Beaten egg
     • Bowl 3: Breadcrumb mixture (panko, Italian breadcrumbs, and Parmesan)
   • Coat each chicken breast in flour, then egg (let excess drip off), and finally the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Bake the Chicken:
   • Place the breaded chicken on the prepared rack.
   • Generously spray the tops with oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
   • Broil for 1-2 minutes at the end for extra crispiness.
5. Melt the Cheese:
   • In a separate 9×13-inch baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce.
   • Create two piles of mozzarella cheese (about the size of the chicken) and place them in the dish.
   • Bake for 7-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and golden.
6. Assemble and Serve:
   • Transfer the crispy chicken cutlets to plates.
   • Using a spatula, carefully lift the melted cheese and marinara sauce onto the chicken.
   • Sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

• Use Thin Chicken Cutlets: This ensures even cooking and maximum crispiness.
• Broil for Extra Crunch: The final broil step adds a restaurant-quality crispiness to the breading.
• Serve with Pasta or Salad: Pair with spaghetti marinara or a fresh arugula salad for a complete meal.

Why This Recipe Works

Chicken Parmesan delivers the ultimate comfort food experience—crispy, juicy chicken with rich, gooey cheese and tangy marinara. It’s easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for special occasions.